Suspects in death of ‘Tisoy’ identified, police confirm physical abuse

QUEZON CITY, Philippines – The Quezon City Police District (QCPD) has revealed the suspects behind the death of Genesis “Tisoy” Argoncillo, a “tambay” who was arrested by police for violating city ordinances.

The suspects, who were confirmed members of the notorious “Sputnik Gang,” were identified as Richard Bautista and Justine Mercado.

Based on witnesses’ accounts, an anxious Argoncillo was walking back and forth inside the cell when he accidentally stepped on a suspect’s foot. Witnesses added that police on duty did not notice the commotion as other members of the gang positioned themselves to conceal the mauling.

The two suspects will be charged with murder for Argoncillo’s death.

Meanwhile, the QCPD insists they are not covering up for their colleagues as allegations surfaced after police initially denied that the victim was mauled.

Esquivel said investigation is underway and added that five policemen from QCPD Station 4 have already been relieved in connection with the incident.

Despite this, QCPD maintained they will carry on with accosting and arresting street idlers and offenders of city ordinances in line with the government’s campaign against criminality. — Grace Casin / Marje Pelayo